Aircraft group has lofty hopes

The members of Chapter #283 of the Experimental Aircraft Association, based at the Cherry Ridge Airport in Honesdale, offered, for the first time, a scholarship to all area high school seniors who plan on a career in aviation.

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By Kim FischSpecial to The Independent

Wayne Independent - Honesdale, PA

By Kim FischSpecial to The Independent

Posted Jul. 13, 2013 at 12:00 AM

By Kim FischSpecial to The Independent
Posted Jul. 13, 2013 at 12:00 AM

CHERRY RIDGE

— The members of Chapter #283 of the Experimental Aircraft Association, based at the Cherry Ridge Airport in Honesdale, offered, for the first time, a scholarship to all area high school seniors who plan on a career in aviation.

This scholarship grew from a desire of wanting to do something to encourage the interest of the younger generation in flight and flying.

In order to qualify for the $1500 scholarship, the recipient must attend a two or four year post secondary college or related technical field in aviation, aerospace design, aeronautical engineering or pilot training toward commercial flying.

This year's recipient is Kyler Cherin of Greentown, a Wallenpaupack Area High School graduate who will be attending Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University in the fall. Kyle will be majoring in aviation based electrical engineering and plans to earn a minor degree in flight.

His ultimate goal is to become a commercial pilot through Embry-Riddle Aeronautical University Naval ROTC program.

Nick Estabrook, president of Chapter #283 EAA, presented the scholarship to Kyle at their awards assembly on Friday, June 14 at the Wallenpaupack Area High School.

The scholarship idea grew for the 15 active members of Chapter #283 from a seven year long project. In 2005, the group purchased a wrecked 1946 Piper Cub which then took seven years to restore the plane. The sale of the 1946 Piper Cub funded the scholarship.

This scholarship may be awarded next year. All area 2014 seniors from Honesdale, Wallenpaupack and Western Wayne high schools are encouraged to check with their guidance office for further information.

This active group is still encouraging today's youth to pursue an interest in planes, flight and flying through the Young Eagles program by broadening their horizons to aviation and the experience of flying.

Around the middle of each September, children and teens, ages 8-17, are invited to take a free flight from one of the Charter #283 members at the Cherry Ridge Airport. Last year during the Young Eagles Day, the group flew 60-80 fights on six aircraft within a three hour span.

If you have an interest to join the group or would like more information, members of Chapter #283 of the Experimental Aircraft Association meet at the Cherry Ridge Airport the second Saturday of each month for breakfast at 8 a.m. with their meeting at 9. New members are welcome.